What is the Difference Between Sucrose and Sucralose?

Sucrose and sucralose are both sweeteners, but they have distinct differences:

1. Origin: Sucrose is a natural sugar, commonly known as table sugar, made up of glucose and fructose and extracted from sugar cane or sugar beets. Sucralose, on the other hand, is an artificial sweetener produced in a lab.
2. Chemical Structure: Sucralose is a chlorinated derivative of sucrose, with three hydroxyl groups replaced by chlorine atoms (two on the fructose-like ring and one on the glucose-like ring). The molecular formula of sucralose is C12H19Cl3O8, while the formula for sucrose is C12H22O11.
3. Sweetness: Sucralose is about 600 times sweeter than sucrose.
4. Calories: Sucralose contributes zero calories to the diet, compared with sucrose, which contains 16 calories per teaspoon (4.2 grams).
5. Metabolism: Unlike sucrose, sucralose is not metabolized by the body.
6. Bitter Aftertaste: Sucralose doesn't have a bitter aftertaste, which is a common characteristic of many artificial sweeteners.

Both sweeteners are options for people who need to cut table sugar from their diet. However, they may affect individuals differently, and it's essential to consult a doctor to determine which one may provide the most benefits for you.

Comparative Table: Sucrose vs Sucralose

Sucrose and sucralose are both sweeteners, but they have different properties and sources. Here is a table comparing the differences between them:

Sucrose is a natural sugar extracted from plants, while sucralose is an artificial sweetener produced in a lab. Sucralose is derived from sucrose, but it has three hydroxyl groups replaced by chlorine atoms, making it significantly sweeter and non-caloric. Sucralose is not metabolized by the body, unlike sucrose, which contributes 16 calories per teaspoon (4.2 grams). Some people with diabetes claim that sucralose does not spike their insulin levels, but it's best to discuss with a doctor to determine which sweetener may provide the most benefits for you.